It might seem that the term pre-Romanesque defines a period that is still incomplete, prior to the hegemonic Romanesque; however, it actually refers to the brilliant final stage of traditions that go back to paleochristian art, that stem from the classical world and that demonstrate Asturias' participation in the European cultural avant-garde of the Early Middle Ages. We possess works dated between the 8th and 10th centuries that attest to the development of the Kingdom of Asturias, comparable to that of the Byzantine or Carolingian courts, but also of small monastic communities, demonstrating an intellectual wealth whose artistic legacy we now appreciate. These promoters had the backing of expert artists, with great technical mastery and symbolic capacity, integrating sculpture and painting or safeguarding the delicate goldwork.
The Art of the Asturian Monarchy: A Landmark in Medieval European Culture.
It is considered to be the most complete and homogeneous ensemble of late medieval architecture in Western Europe, geographically concentrated and exceptionally well preserved in its original state, factors that make it unique. It was developed at the height of the splendour of the emirate of Cordoba and transcended its time, influencing later European architecture.
Not surprisingly, back in 1985 Unesco added several of these works to its World Heritage list, extending the list in 1998 to the six ninth-century Asturian monuments that enjoy this status today. In addition to these, there are other outstanding constructions and works of art to be discovered in various municipalities.
Located on the slopes of Mount Naranco, this outstanding example of cultural heritage is well worth a visit: a wide range of museum exhibits (panels, chronograms, photos, models, audiovisual media...) as well as specialised bibliography and frequent workshops for children.
The church of San Julián de los Prados is the oldest and largest of the pre-Romanesque buildings that still remain. Oviedo/Uviéu Church of San Julián de los Prados
Pre-Romanesque church located on the banks of the river Nora, 13 kilometres from the council of Oviedo. San Pedru Nora - Las Regueras Church of San Pedro de Nora
Pre-Romanesque church, which was built by a priest called Juan and consecrated to San Salvador. Priesca (Villaviciosa) Church of San Salvador de Priesca
The church of San Salvador de Valdediós was built by the monarch Alfonso III. Valdediós - Villaviciosa Church of San Salvador de Valdediós
Founded in the 9th century by Alfonso II the Chaste in honour of Saint Tirso, it was donated to the cathedral of San Salvador by Alfonso III the... Church of San Tirso el Real
Pre-Romanesque church probably built in the time of King Alfonso II. Bendones - Oviedo Church of Santa María de Bendones
Pre-Romanesque church from the 10th century, partially rebuilt in the 19th century. Gobiendes - Colunga Church of Santiago de Gobiendes
Ancient Benedictine abbey founded by King Alfonso III in the year 891. Tuñón - Santo Adriano Church of Santo Adriano de Tuñón
Of the primitive constructions that stood on the site where the cathedral stands today, the Cámara Santa (Holy Chamber) remains. Oviedo/Uviéu Holy Chamber
Temple located on the left bank of the Villaviciosa estuary. Bedriñana - Villaviciosa San Andrés de Bedriñana
The building we can see today corresponds to approximately one third of the original construction. Oviedo/Uviéu San Miguel de Lillo
The church of Santa Cristina de Lena is undoubtedly related to the works at Naranco. Lena Santa Cristina de Lena